Nine people have been arrested from seven different locations in Tongatapu, in ongoing drug operations by Tonga Police.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Tevita Vailea said today, from February 8-12, the arrests were made at Ma’ufanga, Pahu, Lapaha, Hoi, Kolofo’ou, Vaini and Fua’amotu.

Police seized 1.27 grams of methamphetamine, 2.99 grams of cannabis, 34 live bullets, over $5,000 pa’anga cash and drug utensils.

The accused, consisted of seven men and two women ranged from as young as young as 13-years-old to 47 years old. They have been charged with possession of illicit drugs, to appear in court on a later date. 

Others have also been charged with possession of ammunition without a license.

A/Deputy Commissioner Vailea said these latest arrests is a part of the Drug Enforcement Taskforce's continuting efforts towards combating drug-relating offences. 

“Drugs have no place in our community, they destroy the lives of users, harming our children and our communities. We hope these arrests will bring some reassurance to the community.” 

He said, the effect of drugs in the community is devastating and Police will take swift actions to hold those offenders twho try to spread harm by supplying and selling illicit drugs, to account.

Police encourages anyone who may have information relating to drug related offences to contact police on 22784. 

Reported Crimes 

Meanwhile, Tonga Police reported a drop in crimes. 

In 2018 there were 2584, in comparison to 2214 last year. A decrease of 370 offences.

There was also a big drop in road fatalities with only four in 2019 compared to 22 deaths in 2018.

Homicides were in 2018 high with 10, dropping to three in 2019

While some 220 lives were saved at sea since December 2015, with Police Search and Rescue Boats.